Persephone

History of the Persephone

The wood and steel star of the TV series “The Beachcombers” and her skippers Nick Adonidas and Jessie Jim, rivaled Relic in his jet boat as they roamed the waters of Howe Sound. Thirty years after the end of filming, people still flock to Gibsons, BC to visit Molly’s Reach and the former resting spot of the Persephone. Thousands every year gathered around, to have their pictures taken and reminisce on Sunday evenings past, and favourite episodes fondly remembered.

The Beachcombers often pulled in more viewers than “Hockey Night in Canada” – a huge record for this unique series. The show was also one of the first of its kind to feature First Nations performers, an aspect of this series that will be highlighted at the Persephone’s new home.

July 30, 2020, marked the 30th anniversary of the filming of the final episode of The Beachcombers.

To listen to a Canadian History EHX podcast on the history and impact of The Beachcombers, please click here.

Learn more:

• Watch a quick video about the restoration project here.
• Read the Canadian Encyclopedia entry on The Beachcombers here.

Persephone/The Beachcombers In the News

• 2022-10-10: Canadaland podcast – Salvaging the Beachcombers
• 2022-10-01: YouTube (starts at 1:43) – Beachcombers 50th Anniversary celebration
• 2020-12-08: Coast Reporter – BC Ferries to help fund Persephone restoration
• 2020-09-26: Canadian History EHX podcast – The Beachcombers
• 2020-08-09: Coast Reporter – Search for new home for Persephone continues
• 2020-08-02: CBC News – Beachcomber star reflects on iconic Canadian series on 30th anniversary of last episode
• 2020-02-18: Coast Reporter – Members sought for Beachcombers boat committee

Click below to hear the (highly nostalgic) Beachcombers theme music: